Inkwell in the Form of Atlas Holding a Globe

Severo Calzetta da Ravenna

first half 16th century or later · Copper alloy · Robert Lehman Collection

Through comparison with other inkwells of this model, the kneeling male figure seen here can be identified as Atlas, the Titan from Greek mythology who supported the celestial sphere on his shoulders. However, in this version, the large, globe-shaped oil lamp he would originally have carried does not survive.

Artist

Severo Calzetta da Ravenna

Date

first half 16th century or later

Medium

Copper alloy

Department

Robert Lehman Collection

Credit line

Robert Lehman Collection, 1975